Swallowing Stones
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Book Brief
245
Novel • Fiction
•
Education•
Mystery & Crime FictionBriarwood, New Jersey • 1990s
•
Guilt•
Regret1997
Laurel Leaf
YA
14-18 years
820L
Super Short Summary
On Michael MacKenzie’s 17th birthday, he fires a rifle into the air, unaware the bullet will tragically kill Jenna Ward’s father, Charlie. As Michael grapples with guilt and fear of exposure, he distances himself from loved ones and forms a connection with Amy Ruggerio. Meanwhile, Jenna struggles with grief and guilt, eventually confronting her feelings. Michael realizes he must confess to Jenna and take responsibility. Swallowing Stones contains depictions of gun violence.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
3,071 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Swallowing Stones by Joyce McDonald explores the devastating consequences of a tragic accident on two young lives. Reviews praise its intense, emotive storytelling and realistic depiction of grief and guilt. Criticism highlights occasional pacing issues and somewhat underdeveloped secondary characters. Overall, it's a gripping and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Swallowing Stones?
A reader who would enjoy Swallowing Stones by Joyce McDonald is likely a young adult interested in gripping, realistic fiction that deals with complex themes like guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions. Similar readers might appreciate books such as Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher or The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.
3,071 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A fifteen-year-old girl dealing with the loss of her father, navigating her emotions and finding ways to accept her new reality post-tragedy.
A classmate of Michael’s with a misunderstood reputation, who plays a nurturing role in the healing journeys of both Michael and Jenna.
Michael’s best friend, known for his troublemaker reputation, who becomes entangled in the aftermath of Michael's actions and faces scrutiny during the investigation.
245
Novel • Fiction
•
Education•
Mystery & Crime FictionBriarwood, New Jersey • 1990s
•
Guilt•
Regret1997
Laurel Leaf
YA
14-18 years
820L
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